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Entry Level Plastics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astound Group LLC

CNC Programmer

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Operate CNC routers or mills to cut wood, plastics, and non-ferrous materials to precise ... Experience operating CNC milling and/or turning machines. * Entry-level to intermediate experience ...

Lyman Morse Boatbuilding, INC

CNC Programmer

Thomaston, ME · On-site

$27.50 - $37.50/hr

The Entry Level CNC Programmer is expected to learn to program and run programs for the machines in ... Experience with machining a variety of materials (plastics, metals, woods etc.) * Experience in ...

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ... Knowledge of plastic part design, including; injection molding, Part design for manufacturability ...

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ... Knowledge of plastic part design, including; injection molding, Part design for manufacturability ...

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Owatonna, MN · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ... Knowledge of plastic part design, including; injection molding, Part design for manufacturability ...

ROUSH

CAE NVH & Durability Analyst I

Livonia, MI · On-site

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers ... This entry-level position will perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to solve CAE NVH / Durability ...

ROUSH

CAE NVH & Durability Analyst I

Livonia, MI · On-site

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers ... This entry-level position will perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to solve CAE NVH / Durability ...

Roush

CAE NVH & Durability Analyst I

Livonia, MI

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers ... This entry-level position will perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to solve CAE NVH / Durability ...

Roush

CAE NVH & Durability Analyst I

Livonia, MI

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers ... This entry-level position will perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to solve CAE NVH / Durability ...

Elyria Plastic Products

CNC Machinist Apprentice

Elyria, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Elyria Plastic Products is a contract manufacturer specializing in custom injection molding, mold ... This is an entry-level apprenticeship opportunity that combines hands-on, on-the-job training with ...

New

Elyria Plastic Products

CNC Machinist Apprentice

Elyria, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Elyria Plastic Products is a contract manufacturer specializing in custom injection molding, mold ... This is an entry-level apprenticeship opportunity that combines hands-on, on-the-job training with ...

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Entry Level Plastics Engineer information

See salary details

$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level plastics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plastics engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Plastics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Plastics Engineer, you need a background in materials science or chemical engineering, with knowledge of polymer properties and processing techniques. Familiarity with CAD software, injection molding machinery, and relevant industry standards or certifications (like Six Sigma or ISO) is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in collaborative environments and troubleshoot manufacturing issues. These skills are crucial for ensuring product quality, optimizing production, and supporting innovation in plastics applications.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plastics Engineer vs Junior Plastics Designer?

AspectEntry Level Plastics EngineerJunior Plastics Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Plastics Engineering, Materials Science, or related fieldBachelor's in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, design officesDesign studios, product development teams, manufacturing settings
Industry UsagePlastic product manufacturing, automotive, packagingConsumer products, packaging, product design
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Plastics Engineer and a Junior Plastics Designer lies in their focus areas. Engineers typically work on material selection, process optimization, and product testing, while designers focus on aesthetics, ergonomics, and conceptual development. Both roles often collaborate in product development but serve distinct functions within the plastics industry.

What does an Entry Level Plastics Engineer do?

An Entry Level Plastics Engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of plastic products and components. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, learning about different types of plastics, processing methods like injection molding, and quality control practices. Their responsibilities may include conducting material tests, evaluating product prototypes, troubleshooting production issues, and supporting process improvements. This role is ideal for recent graduates with a background in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field. Entry level plastics engineers often gain hands-on experience and foundational knowledge that prepares them for more advanced positions in the plastics industry.

What are some typical projects or tasks an Entry Level Plastics Engineer might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Plastics Engineer, you can expect to work on projects such as assisting in the design and testing of plastic components, supporting manufacturing process improvements, and conducting material property analyses. You may be involved in troubleshooting production issues, collaborating with senior engineers to develop prototypes, and ensuring products meet quality and regulatory standards. This role often requires close teamwork with manufacturing, quality assurance, and design departments, providing valuable exposure to the full product lifecycle and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.
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Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs near you
Injection Mold Technician/Mold Maker

Injection Mold Technician/Mold Maker

Integrity Tennessee, Inc.

Pulaski, TN

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Mold Maker

Experience Levels: Apprentice / Journeyman / Senior
Company: Integrity Tennessee, Inc.
Location: Onsite – Pulaski, TN
Job Type: Full-Time

About Integrity Tennessee

Integrity Tennessee is a safety-focused manufacturing company committed to quality, craftsmanship, and employee wellbeing. We value individuals who take pride in plastic injection mold making, show initiative, and work with precision. We offer steady schedules, competitive weekly pay, and a full benefits package in a professional, team-oriented environment.

Benefits

  • Competitive pay (based on experience level)

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Life insurance amp; AD amp;D

  • Long-Term Disability (LTD)

  • Tool purchase program

  • Uniform allowance

  • Paid vacation amp; holidays

  • Ongoing safety training

  • Additional benefits available

General Responsibilities (All Levels)

  • Build, assemble, maintain, and repair plastic injection molds

  • Assemble molds according to engineering drawings, specifications, and production schedules

  • Fit, function, and spot mold components to close tolerance requirements

  • Install, fit, test, and troubleshoot hot runner and cold runner systems

  • Disassemble molds for maintenance, repair, or modification

  • Operate overhead cranes and forklifts to relocate molds safely

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace

  • Follow all company policies, ISO standards, and OSHA regulations

  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members

  • Perform additional duties as assigned by management

Experience Level TiersApprentice Mold Maker

Experience: Entry-level to 2 years (training provided)

Responsibilities:

  • Assist with plastic injection mold assembly and disassembly

  • Learn mold fitting, spotting, polishing, and basic troubleshooting

  • Perform preventive maintenance tasks under supervision

  • Maintain tools, work areas, and documentation

  • Participate in safety training and skills development programs

Qualifications:

  • Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn

  • Ability to follow instructions with supervision

  • Basic hand tool and measurement knowledge preferred

  • Positive attitude and strong work ethic

Journeyman Mold Maker

Experience: 3–7 years in plastic injection mold making

Responsibilities:

  • Independently assemble, disassemble, and maintain injection molds

  • Spot and fit components to tight tolerances

  • Install and service hot and cold runner systems

  • Diagnose and resolve mold-related issues during production

  • Support apprentices and assist with training when needed

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience in plastic injection mold making

  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and tolerances

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

  • Minimal supervision required

Senior Mold Maker

Experience: 8+ years in plastic injection mold making

Responsibilities:

  • Lead complex mold builds, repairs, and modifications

  • Diagnose advanced mold performance and quality issues

  • Optimize mold functionality for efficiency, longevity, and quality

  • Mentor and train apprentice and journeyman mold makers

  • Collaborate with engineering, tooling, and production teams

  • Provide input on tooling improvements and process enhancements

Qualifications:

  • Extensive experience in plastic injection mold making

  • Advanced knowledge of hot runner systems, mold design, and materials

  • Strong leadership and mentoring skills

  • High level of precision, craftsmanship, and accountability

Physical Requirements (All Levels)

  • Ability to lift and move materials weighing 1–75 lbs

  • Ability to stand for extended periods

  • Ability to climb ladders and equipment as required

Why Join Integrity Tennessee?

  • Safety-first culture

  • Clear career progression from Apprentice to Senior Mold Maker

  • Recognition for craftsmanship and initiative

  • Stable workload and consistent schedule

  • Long-term career growth in plastic injection molding manufacturing

Apply